Ivor, your "Rules for Being Human" reminded me of this - a favourite of mine written by the cartoonist Leunig:

WHAT IS THIS LIFE?

Life is a holiday on Earth.

You arrive at your holiday destination and there, to
meet you, wearing a big smile, is your host and guide.

(Hello, I'm your mum. I'll get you started and show you around. Would you like some milk?)

The accommodation is a bit unusual but it's clean and
comfortable - it's your body; quite a good base for an
existence.

(I'll just personalise it and it will feel like home.)

You study some maps, go for a bit of an explore and
soon your getting the hang of it. The place is full of
holiday makers and before too long you're having a
holiday romance! And why not?!

Life is an interesting place to visit; quite enjoyable
and well worth the experience but you wouldn't want to
be there too long. You would always feel like a bit of
an outsider.

Holidays on Earth can be wonderful and horrible. But
regardless, it's always a bit sad when they come to an
end. And always a good feeling to know that you are
returning home to where you really belong; all
refreshed and with some lovely holiday memories.